Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 29 2009:
With a call to consolidate the strength of the Meira Paibis, the 29th commemorative function of the Meira Paibi movement in Manipur was observed at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen here today.
Discussion on the present status of the Meira Paibis and the ways and means of strengthening their movement marked the observance.
Organised under the aegis of All Manipur Women Social Reformation and Development Samaj, president of the Samaj K Taruni and its chief advisor Hidangmayum Brojeshori were presidium members of the observance function attended by Meira Paibis coming from different parts of the State.
Delivering the key note address, general secretary of All Manipur Women Social Reformation and Development Samaj, Th Ramani said that Manipur was once a peaceful and prosperous State.
But today, the people of the State are being deprived of their basic right to live.
It is against such social injustice and violation of human rights that the Meira Paibis have been fighting for the last 29 years.
Unfortunately, some forces are trying to mislead and suppress the movement of the Meira Paibis.
Participating in the discussion session, founder general secretary of Macha Leima Yumlembam Ongbi Ibetombi exhorted the Meira Paibis to join hands and work together earnestly in view of the prevailing human rights situation in the State.
Nanao Thounaojm of United Committee for Peace and Integrity emphasised on setting up rules and regulations of the Meira Paibis to improve their present status and consolidate the strength of their movement.
The projects of the Meira Paibis should be included in the policy of the State so as to empower them financially as well, she mooted.
Social activist Sitara Begum decried the conduct of the security forces in targeting Meira Paibis and call upon the gathering the conduct of the security forces in targeting Meira Paibis and call upon the gathering for action to show that they would not accept such conduct of the security forces anymore.
Social activist Thasana noted that exclusion of women from any major decision making process should be stopped.